My Body and Other Crumbling Empires: Lessons for Healing in a World That Is Sick

Activist Medford debuts with a thought-provoking look at illness in individuals and society. At 26, Medford’s life was turned upside down when her Behçet’s syndrome, a rare autoimmune illness from childhood, reappeared. Though it was a distressing diagnosis, she also gained valuable perspective about the way illness and the quest to heal it can help readers enter “more fully into [one’s] own humanity.” She discusses “healing from the inside out” as a person and, more broadly, within a broken healthcare system (“when we advocate for our integrated bodies and minds in exam rooms...,” she writes, “we are already making change in the world”). Individually and culturally, the “most effective change we will ever make is within ourselves,” she suggests, explaining how readers can take small steps (buying local, organic food; advocating for social causes one is passionate about) to “offer kind attention to the places [in the world] crying out to be tended.” Throughout, she also draws on her faith to contend that Jesus makes room for imperfect healing. Those suffering from chronic illnesses will find a compassionate friend in Medford, and those seeking to live a more justice-focused life, a willing guide. Her sharp insights will help readers reimagine healing and wholeness. (Mar.)